Only an eighth grader, Rhilynn Rogers has been the most pleasant surprise for the Middlesboro tennis team in the first half of the 2025 season.
Rogers ran her record in singles to 4-2 with a 6-2, 3-6, 10-8 marathon win Thursday at Harlan County against Kaitlyn Daniels.
“She has been very consistent,” Middlesboro coach Jeff McClelland said. “She always shows up, and I can count on her to give a good effort, even when she gets down early as she did at Harlan County.”
Kaylee Henderson, a sophomore, was the other winner for the Lady Jackets in a 7-2 loss. Henderson defeated Riley Witt by default.
The Middlesboro boys pushed Harlan County to the limit, despite having two starters out, in a 5-4 loss.
Nelson Carroll and Peyton Ayers were singles winners for the Jackets as Carroll defeated Trey Ball and Ayers defeated Heath Ball.
Carroll and Caiylor Baker were winners in their doubles match.
Middlesboro returns to action Monday at Corbin before playing host to Whitley County on Tuesday.